CRISPR and cancer

The cancer question continues to loom over CRISPR: It appears as though the gene-editing technique might work better in cells that have lost their cancer kill switch, meaning that edited cells might give rise to new tumors.

Two independent research groups brought that issue to light back in June, and scientists the world 'round have since been probing the issue. One of several findings: Researchers at the National Cancer Institute are now finding that cells with certain oncogenes are more likely to survive CRISPR editing.